Having moved the other side of the world a year and a half ago with one large (and very heavy) suitcase, it hasn’t taken me long to accumulate a new wardrobe this side of the pond. I’ve always loved my clothes and make a conscious effort to make the most of them, particularly now that we live in an age in which recycling and sustainable fashion are so important.
In light of this, I endeavour to source my clothes sustainably by visiting vintage thrift stores, charity shops or markets. Surry Hills is full of quirky, cool vintage outlets and of course my favourite past time at the weekend is to visit the famous Kirribilli Markets to dig out some bargains of previously owned and loved garments. My most recent purchases were a pair of Levi shorts for $5, a Kookai denim playsuit for $10 and a forest green silk shirt dress for $5.
So here in my beautiful flat located in Lavender Bay, I’m lucky enough to have my own three double door wardrobe – what a dream! I have the luxury to organise and proudly display my pieces which makes getting dressed each morning easy and fun. I’ve always been a shoe addict too, so I’ve used the bottom few shelves of the middle section to store these, placing my beloved mules from Zomp and Prada heels from my auntie at the front.
My wardrobe here is definitely a fraction of the size back home in England, however I have learnt to be more minimal by sticking to key pieces which can be worn different ways. Layering is an essential component to acheiving this, so I make sure to have a range of tanks, blouses, shirts and jackets.
Having good fitting jeans in different washes is also an absolute must. My favourite brand of denim at the moment is Neuwlandstrat as they make great quality, bum hugging pants – and they match my Dutch last name!
Whilst I wish I could ship the rest of my wardrobe from home out here to Oz, I’ve learnt a more simple, less is more approach to dressing now. However with such a fantastic wardrobe setup which also pleases my inner neat-freak, I can’t help but occasionally treat myself to a few new additions. At the moment I have my eye on a gorgeous Lack Of Colours felt Rancher style hat in Ivory – this will be a staple piece for summer and perfect for my holiday back to Italy in a few months!
Dani Aneka 